UT Austin's Professional Development Center Offers New Personal Trainer Certificate Program

AUSTIN, Texas, June 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Professional Development Center (PDC), a component of Continuing and Innovative Education (CIE) at The University of Texas at Austin, announces the launch of a new Personal Trainer Certificate Program on the university campus. This 6-week program meets once a week and includes 15 hours of lecture and 15 hours of practical gym training. After the successful completion of the training program and final exam, students must complete a 30-hour internship in order to receive a nationally recognized certificate.

The program is designed to give students the knowledge, practice and experience needed to be successful in the growing fitness industry. Recent projections by the U.S. Department of Labor state that fitness trainers and aerobics instructors will be among the fastest growing careers through 2016, with a projected need for 298,000 new jobs over the next eight years (U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2007).

The Personal Trainer Certificate Program is presented by PDC in conjunction with the World Instructor Training Schools (WITS), a nationally recognized and approved member of the International Association of Continuing Education and Training and an affiliate with the National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE). WITS is also approved by the Board of Certification for athletic trainers and for Veterans Education and Training.  

"What's so terrific about this program is that students can earn this certificate and then work anywhere in the country," stated Liliya Spinazzola, manager of the Professional Development Center. "Students who successfully complete this program can embark on a career as a personal trainer in gyms, resorts, spas, even cruise ships. They could also start their own fitness business as an independent contractor and enjoy more flexible work schedules. In this difficult economic climate, I'm very proud that the Professional Development Center can offer students an educational opportunity that could potentially lead to economic independence and success."  

"According to a recent study, Austin was listed the 10th healthiest city in America," said Veronica Phillips, program coordinator for PDC. "Austin also rated very high in the number of gyms and health club per capita. Fitness is important to many people here. Therefore, if you have a desire to help others attain their fitness goals, becoming a personal trainer is a great way to increase your income."

The Professional Development Center will host two free information sessions on The University of Texas at Austin campus on July 16 and July 23. These sessions will include instructor and registration overviews, in addition to a review of course topics and requirements. Free registration is required at http://www.utexas.edu/ce/pdc//certificate/personal-trainer-info-sessions.

Additional information, including registration information, pre-requisites, an FAQ, and course outline, is found online at http://www.utexas.edu/ce/pdc//certificate/personal-fitness-trainer.

About the Professional Development Center:

The Professional Development Center (PDC), a component of Continuing and Innovative Education at The University of Texas at Austin, offers a wide range of programs and courses designed to help individuals and organizations around Texas and around the world improve personal, professional and organizational performance. To meet this goal, PDC offers high-quality non-credit courses, professional certificate programs, consulting, coaching, and facilitation services, both online and on the university campus. http://www.utexas.edu/ce/pdc/

About Continuing and Innovative Education:

Continuing and Innovative Education (CIE) has a 100-year history of extending the resources of the university to anyone with a desire to learn. CIE provides a wide range of credit and noncredit courses, services and programs that encompass K-16 academics, online college and professional development courses, professional certificate programs and personal enrichment opportunities. CIE is made up of the K-16 Education Center, Petroleum Extension Service, Professional Development Center, Thompson Conference Center, University of Texas-University Charter School and University Extension. For more information about Continuing and Innovative Education, please visit us online at http://www.utexas.edu/cie/stories.  

Contact: Wayne Wenske, Continuing and Innovative Education, 512-232-7392, [email protected]

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SOURCE Continuing and Innovative Education